Anthony Gormley's iron figures on the beach with ships beyond.
Crosby Beach, on the Sefton coast north of Liverpool in Merseyside, England, is home to Another Place, Antony Gormley's installation of 100 cast-iron figures spread along about three kilometres of shoreline and out toward the horizon. The figures face the open sea, and the typical frame places a single figure in the foreground with the Irish Sea behind and container ships entering the Mersey channel in the distance. Because the beach faces west, sunset light falls behind the figures and produces silhouettes, while sunrise light comes from behind the viewer and lights the iron faces. The tide changes the picture completely: at low tide many figures stand on wet sand and reflect the sky, while the rising tide covers the lower ones until only heads and shoulders remain. Checking tide tables is therefore essential. The best results come at low tide near sunset, with broken cloud, or in moody weather. Winter brings lower sun angles and dramatic skies, and the figures are covered in barnacles and algae of different colours. The beach is popular with walkers, dog owners and visitors, so it is busy on summer weekends, yet the length of the shoreline lets photographers find uncluttered spots. Visitors should take care with tides and soft sand, as parts of the foreshore flood quickly and can be dangerous. Access is free, and tripods are generally acceptable on the beach, although the figures themselves should not be climbed or damaged. Drone rules apply along the coast, and the nearby shipping lanes and wildlife areas may restrict flights. A tripod and neutral density filter allow long exposures that smooth the water and clouds, while a wide lens covers the line of figures. Parking and basic facilities are available near the Crosby Coastal Park and the marine lake area.
| Best time | Low tide at sunset or sunrise |
|---|---|
| Best season | Year-round |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Burbo Bank Road South, Crosby L23 6SH |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- Tripod and ND filter
Location
Burbo Bank Road South, Crosby L23 6SH
53.4752, -3.0389 View on map
Highlights
- Iron figures silhouetted against the sunset
- Low-tide reflections on wet sand
- Container ships passing beyond the figures
- Moody winter skies and long exposures
Tips for visiting
- Check tide tables first; low tide gives the most figures and reflections.
- Use a 6 or 10-stop ND filter on a tripod for smooth water and moving clouds.
- A 24mm lens suits a single figure with sky; a 70-200mm compresses the line of figures.
- Watch for fast incoming tides and soft sand; keep an exit route.
- Wear waterproof footwear; the foreshore is wet and muddy.
When to visit
Low tide at sunset or sunrise, year-round. Winter gives dramatic skies; summer weekends are busier.
Accessibility
Paths near the coastal park are flat, but the beach itself is soft sand and uneven, which is difficult for wheelchairs.
Frequently asked questions
What is Another Place?
It is an installation by Antony Gormley of 100 cast-iron figures spread along the shore at Crosby Beach, facing the sea.
When is the best time to photograph it?
Low tide at sunset or sunrise gives reflections and exposed figures. Check local tide tables beforehand.
Is it safe to walk out to the figures?
Take care, as the tide can come in quickly and the sand can be soft. Keep track of the tide and avoid straying far from the shore.
Are there fees or restrictions?
Access to the beach is free. Tripods are generally fine, and the figures should not be climbed or damaged.